Sashti dates (சஷ்டி) 2024, monthly days

Sashti dates 2024

Shasti Festival | Sashti dates in Calendar

Shasti is very auspicious day for Hindus. They worship Lord Muruga on this day. 'Shasti' is the word derived from sanksrit. It is referred as six, since 'shasti' is observed on sixth day of fifteen day lunar cycle. According to Hindu lunar calendar, 'Shasti' is observed on sixth day after amavasai(or sukhla paksha phase).
Though shasti comes every month of hindu lunar calendar, some of the shasti are very special. The shasti that comes in the month of karthigai (November/December) in Shukla Paksha phase is more significant.

The shasti which comes in the month of ippasi (october/november) is called as 'Kanda Shasti'. Devotees fast for six days. This lasts on the Soorasamharam day(sixth day of fasting). The day after Soorasamharam is Tiru Kalyanam.

On the day of shasti, people worship Lord Muruga, reciting kanda shasti kavasam, undergoes fasting and do other rituals. Lord Muruga will bless devotees by relieving them from worries. The couple who does not have babies can worship the god on this day. Lord Muruga will bless them with baby.

Sashti - The Auspicious Hindu Religious Observance

Sashti is a significant Hindu religious observance dedicated to Lord Murugan, also known as Kartikeya or Subramanya. This day holds immense importance for devotees of Lord Murugan and is observed on the sixth day (Sashti) of each lunar month. Sashti is particularly revered by people in South India and is celebrated with great devotion and enthusiasm.

Key Aspects of Sashti:

1. Frequency: Sashti is observed on the sixth day (Sashti) of each lunar month. The Sashti that falls after the new moon (Amavasya) is considered especially auspicious and is known as "Sashti Vratam."
2. Significance: This observance is dedicated to Lord Murugan, the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Lord Murugan is worshipped as the divine warrior and the embodiment of courage and valor. Devotees seek His blessings for protection, victory, and wisdom.
3. Rituals: Devotees wake up early, take a purifying bath, and visit Murugan temples or shrines. They offer special prayers and perform abhishekam (ritual bathing) to Lord Murugan's idols. Special pujas and recitation of Murugan mantras and songs are conducted in temples.
4. Fasting and Penance: Many devotees observe a day-long fast, abstaining from food and consuming only fruits, milk, or specific vrat dishes. Fasting is believed to cleanse the body and mind and enhance spiritual devotion.
5. Benefits: Observing Sashti is believed to bring blessings, protection, victory over obstacles, and wisdom. It is an opportunity for spiritual growth and a closer connection with Lord Murugan.
6. Legend: Sashti is associated with the legends of Lord Murugan's divine victories and his role in vanquishing evil forces. The observance reflects his valor and triumph over adversity.
7. Devotional Songs: Devotees sing devotional songs and bhajans in praise of Lord Murugan, expressing their love and devotion. The most famous hymn dedicated to Lord Murugan is "Kanda Sashti Kavasam," which is chanted for protection.
8. Observance: Sashti is celebrated with devotion in Lord Murugan temples, particularly in South India. Devotees participate in processions and special rituals to honor their beloved deity.

Sashti is a day dedicated to seeking the divine blessings of Lord Murugan, who is considered the protector and provider of courage to his devotees. By observing Sashti with sincerity and devotion, devotees hope to gain spiritual strength and overcome life's challenges under the guidance of Lord Murugan.